A Different Kind of “Therapy” Dog

Ronan

Ronan and I were at an event this weekend and a very touching thing happened.  We were at our table and a stranger approached and told me that he couldn’t believe he found a Border Collie – he was looking for a Border Collie.  I was a little confused since there were 2 rescue groups with dogs up for adoption, (and Ronan was not one of them).

He got down on the ground and started petting Ronan, who acted as if this was an immediate friend.  He said he was from out of state and asked if I had heard about the terrible car accident that had happened a few days earlier. I said I had.  As tears welled in his eyes he said “that was my sister”.  Stunned, I expressed my sympathy at the sudden loss of his sister.

He told me that he lives in Florida and was on a business trip in DC when he received the tragic news.  He immediately came to NJ to help make arrangements.  I listened as he continued his story by telling me that he hadn’t seen his wife and 2 Border Collies for 5 days.  He was trying to find some kind of dog event to make him feel a little better.  Joe and his one dog compete in agility, but unfortunately there were no trials nearby to watch.  He stumbled upon our event and much to his surprise he saw Ronan.

At this point, my eyes were a little teary as this total stranger pet and loved Ronan as if he were his own dog.  He asked if he could hang out with us for awhile, which was great company for Ronan and me.  He thanked me many times. He kept telling me how this was exactly the type of therapy he needed – especially as Ronan made himself comfortable by sitting on Joe’s lap!  At the end of the event Joe kindly helped me tear down and bring my belongings to my car.  I tried to thank him but he said he was thanking me because being with a Border Collie was just what he needed.

Ronan is not a certified Therapy Dog (at least not yet!), but he helped someone in a way that no human could.  Any type, breed, or size of dog could potentially help someone the way Ronan helped Joe.  Dogs are such amazing creatures – that’s why we love them so much!   As I lifelong dog lover, I understand exactly the type of therapy that Joe was referring to.

I write this on the day of Joe’s sister’s funeral.  I have been thinking of him so much since our chance meeting.  What he doesn’t realize is that I have been so touched by being the connection between Joe and my dog, Ronan, who helped make him feel just a little better for a little while.  I do think there is a reason why our paths crossed that day.

Joe, wherever you are, thanks for having such an impact on us.  We’re thinking of you and wishing you the best during this difficult time.

Stacie & Ronan